Dear Brother Knights: I am pleased to report that we had a very successful month of December that included the following activities and events:

Children's Christmas Party- On December 2nd our Council hosted a Children's Christmas Party for over 30 children. I would like to thank DGK Tim Philips as well as Bros. Joe Liucci, Rick Goulet and distinguished guest, Bob Metzler for their support.

Night Before Christmas Party - On December 8th, we held this event for the second straight year with much success. In addition to a good turnout and a nice profit for the Third Degree, our Council was able to donate approximately 290 lbs. of food to the Enfield Food Shelter. This is a great accomplishment and demonstrates Council #50's commitment to assisting less fortunate members of our community. Thanks so much to all of you that attended this event and made a food donation. Special thanks to Mary Tiroletto, Erika Schnaars and Judy Sullivan for all their hard work preparing the food. Thanks to Bros. Joe Tiroletto, Bruce Belini and Tim Sullivan for their assistance as well.

Adopt a Family Program - Once again Council #50 participated in the Network Against Domestic Abuse Adopt A Family program. The Third Degree and the Bernie Cellillie Racing League donated the necessary funding required to purchase Christmas gifts for two children, ages four and two. I am very proud of our council's support of this program again this year. You should also feel proud that proceeds from events that you participate in are used to support such a worthy cause. Council #50 will continue to support our community in the coming months and I am always open to new ideas and suggestions for supporting charitable and community causes.

Christmas Raffle - I was very happy with the participation in this year's Christmas Raffle. I would like to thank all of you that participated. Thanks for sending back your tickets and supporting the council. I would also like to thank Bros. Paul Cunningham, Jeff Moody, and Lou Tallarita for their donation of raffle prizes.

First Degree - Please remember that our council has a First Degree the third Tuesday of every month. Our First Degree Team is in need of a new member. If you are interested, please contact Bro. Sante Isopo or myself.

Spelling Bee - Once again this year, the Knights of Columbus Council #50 will host the Connecticut Catholic Schools Spelling Bee for children in grades 4-6. This event will be held on Sunday, March 9th at 1 P.M. Volunteers are needed for hall set up, registration and judging. Please contact Bro. Walter Hoinoski if interested.

Irish Night - This year's Irish Night will be held on Saturday, March 8th. Tickets are $15 per person.

Steak Night - Our next Steak Night is planned for Saturday, February 23rd. Tickets are $12 per person and must be purchased before February 21st!!!

Essay Contest - Bro. Walter Hoinoski will once again be coordinating this year's eight grade essay contest. The contest will be held in March and is open to eight graders at St. Martha and St. Bernard schools. If you are interested in being a judge for the contest, please let Walter know.

Our next newsletter will not be mailed. Copies will be avilable on our website www.kofc50.com. I am very proud of the good work our council has done these past few months. Thank you all for your outstanding support. I realize it's sometimes difficult to spend your time and money in support of council events but want you all to know that your support is greatly appreciated. THANK YOU!!!!